Amy

Schofield

My biggest achievement was definitely studying abroad in Thailand! Though it was daunting moving half way across the world by myself, it was so worth it!

More about Amy

What made you choose to study at NTU?

“I visited an open day and really loved the atmosphere. Everyone seemed really nice and I was drawn to the city. I also really liked that I could do a joint honours degree in two subjects I was interested in.”

What do you enjoy most about your course?

“I feel like both my courses, Global Studies and Philosophy really complement each other. I’ve learnt so much about the world, especially global cultures and religions. It has taught me a lot about important global issues and the differences between countries.”

Has the course included any study trips or guest speakers?

“In Global Studies, we recently had a talk from an NTU alumna. She did a similar course and spoke about life after graduation and her journey from an undergraduate, to working in Nigeria for the Department of International Development. I found the talk extremely useful as she works in international development, which is the same career path I hope to take.”

What do you think about the course staff?

“Personally, I think the staff have been excellent. Having a good lecturer can really affect how you feel about a module and how motivated you are to learn. All of my lecturers have been extremely knowledgeable and passionate about what they are teaching and they’re very engaging too.”

What do you think about the University facilities?

“I’m very impressed with the University facilities. I have spent a lot of time in the library in my final year, and I think they’ve designed both libraries really well with lots of group study rooms and separate rooms for silent study. There is a good balance between study and relaxation spaces.”

In a nutshell, why would you recommend your course / NTU to someone looking to study BA (Hons) Global Studies and Philosophy?

“I would highly recommend both my subjects as not only have I gained a vast amount of knowledge, they have both taught me imperative skills that I believe will help me find a good job once I graduate. I have clearly seen improvements in both my critical and analytical thinking and writing. If someone is interested in deepening his or her cultural knowledge and understanding, then this is the perfect course.”

What has been your biggest achievement at NTU so far?

“My biggest achievement was definitely studying abroad in Thailand! Though it was daunting moving half way across the world by myself, it was so worth it!”

Can you tell us more about your exchange to Thailand?

“I studied at Chulalongkorn University in Bangkok for 5 months in the faculty of arts. During my time there, I studied four modules that were relevant to my degree at NTU - Theory of Cultural Studies, Food and Culture, Visual Culture and Reasoning.

"It was interesting seeing how the learning and teaching differed abroad. Overall, I just enjoyed being abroad and experiencing a new place. Bangkok is so different to Nottingham and I loved trying new foods, meeting new people and trying to learn the language. I was also lucky enough to spend some of my weekends travelling around Thailand with the other exchange students, which was without a doubt a highlight for me!”

What skills have you gained from this experience, and how will these skills enhance your employability for your chosen career?

“I hope to pursue a career in the third sector working for an international NGO. This opportunity has given me the confidence to live abroad within a country and culture very unfamiliar to me. It demonstrates to employers that I am adventurous, willing to take risks and be put out of my comfort zone. Cultural awareness is a good personal skill to have, but it is also considered a professional skill in the third sector as individuals must have the ability to look at situations from the perspective of others and not simply from the viewpoint of their own culture or society.”

Can you tell us about the type of support you got from NTU?

“The Arts and Humanities department at NTU have lots of online resources to help with the process, from visa applications and overseas accommodation to financial support. I was granted an NTU mobility grant which gave me £500 towards my semester abroad.”

What advice would you give to future exchange students?

“Do it! I would encourage everyone to study abroad. The idea might be scary, but my advice is to be positive and keep an open mind. Things may not happen exactly as you’d planned in your head, but once you get to know other people and the country you’re living in, you’ll have the best experience!”